Using the process described on this page, and two or 3 different glaze colors, several different types of stone can be simulated on ordinary household objects like a vase or picture frame.
Stone like granite is found in a few different colors in nature; gray, brown and black shade are common and we use those for the projects described here. The gray stone finish is the simplest to do with just two colors involved. Brown is the most complex, requiring five different colors of paint and glaze to create. All of these finishes are easy to do, just follow the chart below and apply the colors in the order and density called for.
Start the process by preparing and priming the surface as called for in the list below. It's best to tint your primer to the same color you will be using for the base coat to make coverage easier. For the base coat, an eggshell paint finish will most closely simulate a real stone look. Either latex or oil-based paint can be used for base coating, but latex will be easier to work with. For shiny stone like polished granite, a clear coat of shellac or varnish can be applied after the faux painting is done to complete the effect.
Painting glaze is used to create this and the other faux finishes on this website. Use latex glaze and mix it with latex paint. The colorants (available at paint stores) you will need for this project are: lamp black, raw umber and burnt umber. These are used to mix the base coat paint (and primer) and the glaze colors required to create the stone effect. Mix the colors in plastic cups or other container that can be covered easily to keep the glaze for drying out. You will need several different shades of paint and glaze, depending on the stone finish you are creating.
Collect the cups you will need for the finish you want to do and mark them for each color of glaze and paint. For small projects like a vase or planter add to each of the glaze cups: ½ cup of the mixing glaze, about a tablespoon of white paint and about a quarter cup of water. Then add tint in the following quantities:
To the base paint cups add half cup white paint and then tint in the following quantities:
For each of the stone finishes described here you will need to apply a base coat of the proper color paint. While you're at it, base coat a piece of cardboard to use as a test surface. For brown stone, base coat with the brown paint, for black or gray stone use the gray paint. Use the glaze colors in the order listed in the chart below and apply each using a natural sea sponge.
Submerge the sponge in water and wring out the excess. To avoid adding any extra water to the glaze, dry the sponge well on a clean, dry rag before dipping it in the glaze. Pour some glaze into a paint tray and dip the sponge in the pool. Squeeze the excess glaze out of the sponge and then swirl it around on the paint tray to distribute the glaze evenly.
Use the test board to practice your sponging technique before applying it to your project. With the sponge held as shown, dab at the board, touching the surface lightly and lifting it immediately in a light pouncing action. Avoid rocking or dragging the sponge while it is in contact with surface. Leave a semi-dense impression of the sponge texture on the surface while still allowing the base color to show through. If the glaze runs while applying, immediately wipe the surface with a clean, wet rag. Dry the sponge thoroughly and try again. When you have the technique right move to the project.
To create a black granite finish, first base coat with the gray paint and let it dry completely. Next, apply the white glaze with the sponge so it mostly covers the gray base paint while still allowing some of it to show. Let the glaze dry for about half an hour, or use a hairdryer to speed the process. Rinse out the sponge with plenty of water until all the white glaze is removed and dry it on a clean rag before proceeding with the next color.
When the white is dry apply the black glaze using the same method, only this time use a lighter touch with the sponge to allow the underlying colors of the base coat and glaze to show through. Allow the black glaze to dry completely.
To finish this effect use a toothbrush to spatter the finish with specks of white, gray and black glaze. Pour about a tablespoon of each color into separate mixing containers and add a tablespoon of water to each; mix thoroughly.
Dip the toothbrush into the glaze and wipe any excess from the handle to avoid dripping on the finish. Holding the toothbrush as shown and run your thumb across the bristles several times to remove the excess glaze. Spatter the test board first until only tiny specks are produced, and then move to the project. Hold the toothbrush above the surface and let gravity assist in even distribution of the specks. Spatter the project with the darker colors and move to the lighter ones. Each color does not need to dry before applying the next. Allow the project to dry for several hours before applying a clear finish such as shellac or varnish.
Use the same methods to create the other stone colors from the chart. Apply the colors in the order called for and let each dry completely before going to the next. Apply each new glaze coat a little less densely than the one before, allowing more of the underlying colors to show through.
